“Tune My Heart,” presented by director and composer Steven Warner, is a two-part diocesan workshop, presented Friday and Saturday, Aug. 9 and 19, at St. Francis Xavier Church in Sartell for musicians in the diocese.
Warner is a renowned musician, composer and choir director and the founder of the famous Notre Dame Folk Choir, with many gifts to share with the Diocese of St. Cloud, said Dominican Sister Jeanne Wiest, the diocesan director of the Office of Worship and organizer of the workshop.
“When Bishop Patrick was involved in campus ministry at Notre Dame University, Steve Warner was ministering there in the campus ministry music program. For Bishop Patrick’s ordination, Steve composed a special bilingual song which is from the diocese’s mission statement. Bishop Patrick hoped the diocese could invite Steve to do a workshop for our diocese,” Sister Jeanne said.
According to Sister Jeanne, it has been seven years since the Office of Worship has offered a workshop for the parish musicians and music directors.
“The workshop includes prayer, singing techniques and learning new songs,” she said. “Friday’s session is focused on music directors. Further, those involved in the workshop will sing at the 4 p.m. Mass at St. Francis Xavier in Sartell at the end of the workshop and Bishop Patrick will preside.”
Stacy Ellens, the music director of St. Cloud Christ Church Newman Center and Holy Spirit Church, plans to participate in the workshop. She said, “I’m excited to attend the workshop Steve Warner is presenting to our diocesan musicians! I look forward to learning from someone who has so much experience in music ministry, and to be able to come together for Mass with Bishop Neary. I also hope to meet and gain inspiration from other music directors in our area.”
The Friday workshop, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., includes a light dinner, instruction and vespers. The workshop on Saturday, Aug. 10, is open to all singers and musicians with a presentation and break-out sessions. The day begins at 8:30 a.m., with light morning refreshments and lunch, and ends after Mass.
Fee is $15 for either event or $30 for both. Registration must be completed by Aug. 1. For more information or to register, visit stcdio.org/event/tune-my-heart/.